Top 15 Activities to Experience in Vermont During Fall

Vermont is a fantastic destination no matter the season. Beyond winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing during warmer months. The state also boasts a vibrant cultural scene with its performing arts, museums, and galleries available year-round.

As a pioneer of the locavore movement, Vermont stands out as a culinary hotspot. The Green Mountain State’s dedicated farmers and chefs produce exceptional farm-to-table dishes featuring meats, cheeses, ice creams, chocolates, wines, and spirits that can compete with the best in the U.S.

You could easily spend a week exploring the state’s picturesque routes, enjoying stunning landscapes, charming covered bridges, tranquil lakes, and scenic parks. If you take the time to visit all of Vermont's towns and cities, you might even become a member of the 251 Club, which celebrates all 251 municipalities in the state.

Here are the top activities to enjoy in Vermont this fall. Let these ideas inspire your next adventure.

1. Explore Shelburne Farms

Nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, Shelburne Farms is a truly enchanting destination in Vermont. Once the estate of railroad magnate William Seward and Lila Vanderbilt Webb, this 1400-acre working farm is now open for public enjoyment.

Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2001, the site features a grass-based dairy farm with Brown Swiss cows, producing the farm's renowned cheddar cheese, as well as an organic garden market and operations for maple sugaring and lumber.

Guests are invited to wander through the Farm Barn, which features animals, a bakery, and a cheesemaking facility, as well as the Coach Barn, primarily used for events and meetings. There are miles of breathtaking walking trails that guide you through the property down to the waterfront.

Planning tip: Consider staying and dining at The Inn, the former summer residence of William and Lila, now a charming 24-room hotel, open from May to October.

2. Discover Vermont’s involvement in the Underground Railroad

Situated in Ferrisburg, the Rokeby Museum is a National Historic Landmark. The Robinson family lived and worked on this 90-acre Merino sheep farm for over two centuries, spanning four generations.

As abolitionists, the Robinson family provided refuge in the 1830s for two formerly enslaved individuals seeking freedom. The museum's exhibit titled 'Free and Safe' vividly illustrates Vermont's contribution to the Underground Railroad.

The historic farmstead, featuring nine outbuildings, the original family residence, and hiking trails, spans 90 acres of land.

Planning tip: The museum welcomes visitors from mid-May to late October.

3. Keep an eye out for 'Whales Tails'

As you drive along Interstate 89, watch for 'Whales Tails' between exits 12 and 13. This striking sculpture, officially named Reverence, is carved from 36 tons of African black granite and stands out easily. You can approach the two 13-foot-high tails via a 1.3-mile walking path in South Burlington's Technology Park, and during the holiday season, they're adorned with Christmas lights.

But why are these outdoor sculptures of whales' tails located in a landlocked state? Vermont's Champlain Valley was once submerged beneath the Champlain Sea, an extension of the ocean. The presence of whales in the area was confirmed when a beluga whale fossil was discovered in Charlotte in 1849.

4. Indulge in a creemee

What is known as soft-serve ice cream in other parts of the country is referred to as a creemee in Vermont. Slightly creamier than traditional hard ice cream, this delightful treat comes in classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla, but the most popular choice is maple. There's even a Maple Creemee Trail dedicated to finding the finest ones in the state.

You can find creemees at snack shacks, roadside stands, and gas stations – all are delicious. However, some of the best options are at Little Gordo in Burlington, the Village Creeme Stand in Bristol, and the Creemee Stand in Wilmington.

Local tip: For some of the most inventive creemees, visit Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield. Try the Bad Larry, a massive cone of maple ice cream adorned with maple crystals and crowned with maple cotton candy.

5. Get hands-on at Billings Farm

Founded in 1871, Billings Farm stands as one of the oldest registered Jersey dairy farms in the country. Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic rural farm life at this fully operational farm, which hosts Jersey cows alongside draft horses, steers, oxen, sheep, pigs, chickens, and goats.

This outdoor history museum spans 200 acres, so plan to spend half a day exploring its educational exhibits, the barn, and the 1890 Farm Manager's House. The Dairy Bar is an ideal stop for ice cream or cider donuts, especially with hot apple cider in the fall.

6. Take a walk in the heart of a lake

It's not often you can walk directly into the middle of a lake, but in Vermont, the Colchester Causeway makes it possible. Constructed from white marble sourced from Rutland quarries, this former railroad bed now features a 10ft-wide gravel path with some of the most breathtaking views in the state.

The segment of the Island Line Trail that links Colchester to South Hero is perfect for biking or walking. About two-thirds of the way out, a 200ft cut accommodates boat traffic, including the Island Line Trail Bike Ferry, which allows pedestrians and cyclists to cross and continue on to South Hero.

7. Shop for local produce at weekly farmers markets

Originally just a spot to purchase local produce, farmers markets have evolved into full-fledged community events. Beyond offering fresh vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods, they serve as gathering places for the community to eat and shop together.

With nearly 85 weekly farmers markets in Vermont, enthusiasts of farm-to-table products can wander through open-air markets and taste some of the finest food the state has to offer. It's a fantastic chance to meet the local farmers behind the produce.

Planning tip: The Waitsfield Farmers Market, Craftsbury Farmers Market, and Burlington Farmers Market are among the largest and most beloved markets in the state.

8. Harmonize in the hills at the Trapp Family Lodge

The hills of Stowe continue to resonate with melodies. Over 70 years ago, Georg and Maria von Trapp found their home in Vermont. Today, the Trapp Family Lodge features an Austrian-style hotel adorned with family photos and memorabilia. Begin your experience with a 90-minute historical tour to uncover the true story of the von Trapp family, which varies significantly from the portrayal in The Sound of Music.

As the resort has expanded, it now includes a beer hall, brewery, and coffee shop serving fresh Austrian pastries. The grounds also boast miles of trails perfect for mountain biking, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Planning tip: In autumn, the lodge hosts Oktoberfest, while winter offers the chance to enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the picturesque pastures.

9. Visit a charming Vermont general store

Vermont boasts several historic general stores that continue to thrive. Found in town centers, these stores are not only places to gather provisions but also serve as community hubs. The iconic Warren Store, established in 1839, is particularly famous, featuring shelves filled with local goods and Vermont specialties.

It's an ideal spot for browsing unique souvenirs. Here, you'll discover maple syrup, hot sauces, artisanal cheeses, jams, craft beers, home goods, and fashionable accessories.

Planning tip: Grab a sandwich from the deli and enjoy it on the deck with a view of the Mad River.

10. Discover ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

Located just steps from Burlington's waterfront, ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain focuses on the ecology of Lake Champlain, including its flora and fauna.

This science museum resembles an aquarium, featuring a life-sized replica of a famous shipwreck. You can explore numerous other wrecks in Lake Champlain and investigate whether the Legend of Champ is merely a myth or grounded in reality.

Discover over 100 interactive exhibits alongside 70 species of fish, reptiles, and amphibians, including snapping turtles, black rattlesnakes, and pumpkinseed fish.

11. Dive into Vermont's craft beer scene

Though Vermont may not be the birthplace of craft beer, it has been producing delicious home-brewed pints for quite some time. The opening of Vermont Pub and Brewery in Burlington in 1988 sparked a craft beer movement across the state.

Today, the state boasts over 60 brewpubs, microbreweries, and craft brewers, translating to roughly 11.5 breweries for every resident—a significant amount of beer for such a small state.

The challenge lies in sampling them all during your visit. While renowned names like Magic Hat and Heady Topper are synonymous with Vermont's craft beer, many smaller breweries deserve a spot on your itinerary. Consider joining a craft brew tour to let someone else handle the driving.

12. Explore Vermont's islands

Vermont is not only known for its mountains but also for its cluster of islands in Lake Champlain that are worth a visit. These mostly flat islands are ideal for cycling and are home to several state parks, including Grand Isle and Knight Point, making Lake Champlain a fantastic spot for camping with waterfront views.

Travel from the mainland via Route 2 and stop at Allenholm Farm in South Hero, Vermont's oldest commercial orchard featuring a petting paddock, delicious maple creemees, and a farm store. Afterwards, visit Snow Farm Vineyard and make dinner plans at Blue Paddle Bistro.

Continue north to Hero's Welcome, a beloved general store known for its tasty sandwiches and picnic tables with lake views. It's also a fantastic spot for ice skating in winter. Consider staying at North Hero House or booking a boat tour of the islands.

Planning tip: Before heading into Canada, take time to visit Alburgh Dunes State Park, one of Vermont's largest beaches.

13. Enjoy the slopes at Vermont’s Ski and Snowboard Museum

Vermont is well-known for producing many Olympic-level skiers and snowboarders, making it fitting to have a museum that showcases the history of these sports. The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum in Stowe boasts a collection of over 8000 items, including numerous skis, snowboards, bindings, and machinery used for snowmaking and racing.

The exhibits highlight the history of skiing and snowboarding, featuring the legends of the sports, trends in slopeside fashion through the years, and the evolution of these beloved pastimes over time.

14. Taste the delights of maple syrup

Few things represent 'made in Vermont' quite like maple syrup. With over 1500 sugarhouses, the state produces around 2 million gallons of syrup annually. If you visit Vermont in spring, don't miss the chance to check out a sugarmaker.

Many sugarhouses welcome visitors in March and early April when the weather warms and sap begins to flow. They are eager to demonstrate the maple syrup-making process, explain the various grades, and provide samples to taste.

They also offer Sugar on Snow, a delightful treat made by pouring hot syrup over packed snow, creating a taffy-like texture. This sweet indulgence is typically served alongside a donut and a dill pickle.

15. Visit the Lincoln family's summer residence

Make time to explore Hildene, the summer estate of Abraham Lincoln's only son who lived to adulthood. Located in Manchester, this estate offers plenty to discover. Robert Todd Lincoln, who was president of the Pullman Company, and his wife, Mary, built this family home at the turn of the 20th century.

The property remained in the Lincoln family until 1975, when it was inherited by Abraham Lincoln's great-granddaughter, Peggy Lincoln Beckwith, who passed away.

The estate now features an 8000-square-foot family mansion along with 14 historic structures. Visitors can explore the mansion, carriage barn, a 1903 Pullman car, as well as a goat dairy and a facility for making chevre cheese.

Planning tip: If you're a fan of peonies, plan your visit for late spring or early summer when thousands of these aromatic flowers bloom in the formal garden.